Dundalk have announced the signing of former Chelsea starlet Conor Clifford from non-league outfit Boreham Wood.

He played a starring role at underage level for Chelsea, captaining their youth side to cup victory in 2010.

Unfortunately, the 25-year-old didn't quite kick-on after his sterling start. Failing to break into the first team, he was released by the club in 2013 after a series of loan spells.

Dundalk provides an exciting opportunity for Clifford, former Crumlin UTD teammates Andy Boyle and Richie Towell both received moves to English after impressive seasons at Oriel Park.

Clifford can also look towards Daryl Horgan's impressive start for Preston North End as a motivating factor.

speaking to DundalkFC.com Clifford said: "I know Andy (Boyle) and Richie (Towell). They have been here and they are good friends of mine so I have been aware of what was going on at the club and how well they have been doing."

I have seen them do well and they spoke so highly of the club before I came here. It was something that played was a big factor in coming here. The season can’t come quick enough."

The 25 year-old has lined out for Ireland at underage earning 45 caps across the U17, U19 and U21 grades earlier in his career.

He was also called into the Ireland Senior international squad for a World Cup qualifier against Germany in October 2012.

The prospect of European football was a big draw for Clifford, he explained: “Europe is something I am looking forward to this season".

"I watched Dundalk in the Champions League and Europa League last season and I was very impressed with them. The style of football was good and they played well".

"I want to do something similar this year. I want to help repeat that but I want to win trophies as well. I want to win things. That’s the aim and hopefully we can achieve that".